BEY-LICIOUS: Beyonce has inspired women to be comfortable in their skin [GETTY]

“It’s great to see curvier real women feel empowered to embrace their body shape now”

Gary Kibble, of Littlewoods.com

Around 74% of them are pleased with their appearance – nearly twice as many as their size six counterparts – says a new study.

And women with “Marilyn Monroe figures” have more confidence.

Half of yo-yo dieters also said they were happier being a larger size than when skinny. The research by online retailer Littlewoods.com found 52% of size six women would like to be curvier.

They want to look like TV chef Nigella Lawson or pop star Beyoncé, who top the list of curvy celebs women most admire. The survey of 2,000 women revealed that those sized 14 to 18 had a more positive frame of mind about their bodies.

MOST WANTED: Women envy Nigella's curves and beauty [GETTY]

But those sized six to 10 were much more critical of their appearance, and only 59% liked how they looked.

The trend is refl ected by Rolling In The Deep singer Adele, 25, and size 16 Claire Richards, 36, from Steps. Research also suggests smaller women are envious of “sexy” curves and 35% wish they had a fuller figure.

Nigella, 53, was voted the curvy celebrity British women most envy, followed by Beyoncé, 32, Kim Kardashian, 33, and Christina Hendricks, 38.

Gary Kibble, of Littlewoods.com, said: “It’s great to see curvier real women feel empowered to embrace their body shape now.”

MAD WOMAN: Christina Hendricks shot to fame through her portrayal of Joan the salacious secretary [GETTY]